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Paralegal Degree Information

Whether you’re just starting on your career path or switching careers, the decision to pursue a paralegal degree can be both exciting and overwhelming. Finding the right program will help determine your success in your future paralegal career. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES), 500 not-for-profit colleges and universities offer legal assistant and paralegal programs.1 Continue reading to learn about paralegal degrees by level, how to choose the degree that best matches your career goals, and expert advice on paralegal degree choices.

Table of Contents

Levels of Paralegal Degrees

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employers prefer candidates with a degree, and the majority of paralegals and legal assistants hold an associate degree in paralegal studies or a bachelor’s degree in another field with a certificate in paralegal studies.2 That is why the first step for many is deciding which level of paralegal degree to pursue. Consider the time, financial resources, and career goals when selecting a program. Paralegal programs offer several degree levels, including one-year certificates or diplomas, two-year associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and even master’s degrees.

According to the experts in the field, while it is possible to become a paralegal without a formal education in some states, pursuing a four-year bachelor’s degree is usually the best option for getting hired in the paralegal field. Additionally, according to O*NET OnLine’s survey of paralegals and legal assistants, 37% say a bachelor’s degree is required for paralegals and 20% say an associate’s degree is required.3 In a recent report by NALA (formerly the National Association of Legal Assistants), the majority of respondents (46%) held a bachelor’s degree as their highest degree attained, followed by 30% with an associate degree.4 In terms of paralegal-specific education, 39% had a paralegal certificate, 31% held an associate degree in paralegal studies, and 9% had a bachelor’s degree specifically in paralegal studies.4

Each degree level offers multiple options, including daytime, evening, and online classes. For working students or those not near a campus, part-time, evening, or online programs can be a good alternative to achieve the same degree. However, higher degree levels often require more on-campus time, and it is important to note that the ABA does not approve fully online programs.


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Paralegal Certificate

Many law firms require paralegals to complete a paralegal certificate program before being hired. There are two main types of certificates:

  • Generalist certificates: For students new to the field who want a foundation for entry-level positions. They are typically designed for students with an associate or bachelor’s degree in a non-legal field and ideal for those without legal experience.
  • Specialized certificates: For practicing paralegals who want to specialize in a specific area of law, increase their pay, or increase their hiring potential. They are designed for individuals with experience in the field and are available at both community colleges and four-year universities.

Paralegal certificate programs commonly require between 18 and 60 credit hours and typically take a few months to two years to complete, depending on the type of program. Longer programs typically include general education coursework, similar to an associate degree, whereas shorter programs are focused on legal subjects. It is important to consider the level of education required in the job markets where you plan to seek employment. Consulting with local attorneys and existing paralegals can help you determine if pursuing a certificate is the right choice for your career. Find out more about paralegal certificates on our paralegal certificate page.

Paralegal Associate Degree

Many law firms expect prospective paralegal candidates to have at least a 60-credit-hour associate’s degree in paralegal studies. Associate degree programs usually require a high school diploma or GED, take around two years to complete, and are offered at community colleges. The degrees conferred include an Associate of Applied Science (AAS), an Associate of Science (AS), and an Associate of Arts (AA). Associate paralegal degrees typically focus on practical legal training, providing students with a foundational knowledge of law and essential legal terminology. Students will also learn how to conduct legal research and investigative interviews, write reports, and file legal documents. Some AAS programs include an internship phase, during which students work at a local law office to gain real-world experience. You can read in more detail about this degree on our paralegal associate degree page.

Paralegal Bachelor’s Degree

Some schools offer four-year bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies. Admission requirements vary for each school and program but typically include a high school diploma or GED with a minimum grade point average (GPA). Degrees conferred include a Bachelor of Science (BS), a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS), a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Paralegal Studies, or a Bachelor of Science in Legal Assistant (BLA). A bachelor’s degree consists of 120 semester credits, about half of which are general education credits and half of which are paralegal-specific courses. Coursework includes legal ethics, civil practice, negotiation, and forensic science. Bachelor’s degrees typically offer a more in-depth look at legal studies than associate degrees. According to the BLS, many employers prefer or require paralegals to have a bachelor’s degree.2 Due to the relatively few schools that offer paralegal bachelor’s degrees, however, it is common for aspiring paralegals to have a bachelor’s degree in another subject and a certificate in paralegal studies.4 For more information on bachelor’s degrees for paralegals, see our paralegal bachelor’s degree page and guide to earning a paralegal bachelor’s degree online.

Paralegal Master’s Degree

An increasing number of schools now offer advanced degrees in paralegal studies, which can typically be completed in about two years. Master’s degree programs typically require a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA, Some require or strongly prefer applicants with relevant professional experience, especially for those without an undergraduate degree in paralegal studies. Some master’s programs are built specifically for working professionals, offering classes after work hours or online. The degree conferred may be a Master of Science (MS) or a Master of Arts (MA) in Paralegal Studies. Master’s-level programs are often designed for people who already have experience in the paralegal field and are looking to advance their career or focus their studies on one area of law. These programs typically emphasize a theoretical approach to law, encouraging students to complete research projects that challenge their legal writing and research skills across different areas of the legal field. For more information on master’s degrees in legal studies, read our comprehensive paralegal master’s degree page.

Online Paralegal Degrees

Online paralegal degrees offer flexibility and convenience that traditional on-campus programs may not. For students living in areas without brick-and-mortar schools, online programs are often the only option. However, online degrees are not for everyone. To succeed, students must have reliable internet access and be comfortable navigating the school’s online learning platform. In addition, pursuing an online degree requires strong self-discipline, since students typically have more freedom with scheduling and completing assignments. Students who thrive in a highly structured environment may be a better fit for an on-campus program. To learn more about online learning and top-ranked online paralegal degrees, visit our online bachelor’s degree guide.

Paralegal Coursework

Paralegal studies cover coursework in a variety of legal areas, including legal research, legal writing, and legal policies and procedures. Specific courses may include:

  • Bankruptcy Law
  • Employment Law
  • Federal Courts
  • Immigration Law
  • Introduction to Law
  • Judicial Process
  • Legal Ethics
  • Legal Research
  • Legal Technology
  • Legal Writing and Terminology
  • Paralegal Business Law
  • Paralegal Contract Law
  • Paralegal Criminal Law
  • Paralegal Family Law
  • Paralegal Intellectual Property Law
  • Paralegal Internship/Externship
  • Paralegal Tort Law
  • Plea​​dings and Discovery
  • Real Estate Law
  • State Courts

Paralegal Internships

Legal internships and externships are typically completed towards the end of the program, allowing students to apply what they have learned in the classroom. Some students may even be retained and hired full-time by a firm after completing a successful internship. Even if this is not the case, the experience gained during the internship will be a strong addition to your resume, allowing you to graduate with both a paralegal degree and valuable real-world experience.

Internships vs. Externships

Internships typically involve more extensive, hands-on work and longer-term commitments, often with the possibility of leading to employment at the firm. Externships, on the other hand, tend to be shorter and may involve shadowing professionals more than performing actual tasks. While both provide valuable insights into the profession, internships are typically valued for providing more in-depth practical experience, while externships are known for offering broader exposure to different aspects of the legal field.

Finding Quality Paralegal Programs

Accreditation is one of the most important factors in choosing a school. The US Department of Education now recognizes accrediting agencies without distinction between regional and national categories. Accreditation ensures the quality of education and is required for students to qualify for federal financial aid and other types of assistance.

Another consideration when selecting a school is a paralegal program’s voluntary approval status with the American Bar Association (ABA). The ABA approves paralegal education programs that meet its guidelines to ensure a high quality of education for future paralegals. The ABA approves paralegal programs at the associate, bachelor’s, and certificate levels. It does not currently approve fully online programs. While ABA approval is not required for all jobs, it does indicate to prospective employers that your training has been carefully evaluated by a third party. Since schools must actively pursue ABA approval, it does not automatically mean that ABA-approved programs are always the top choice.

According to the American Association for Paralegal and Legal Education (AAfPE), other factors to consider when evaluating paralegal programs include the reputation of the school and program; the services, facilities, and activities available to students; the school’s mission and program goals; the content of the paralegal curriculum; graduation requirements; faculty qualifications; and, if it’s a distance education program, other special considerations including flexibility, support services, and technology requirements.

Advice for Getting a Paralegal Degree from Paralegal Leaders

“As far as advice to becoming a paralegal, I would say choose the best paralegal program you can find. An accredited program is preferred by employers and most require a four-year degree, but requirements on paralegal education by employers vary a lot so it is best to research your area and find out what employers in your local area are looking for when hiring a paralegal.”
-Marisel Walston is the President of the Kansas City Paralegal Association

“Do not stop with a paralegal certificate or two-year degree. Go for a four-year degree. If you can not find a program with a four-year paralegal degree program, obtain a four-year degree in a field of study that will complement your paralegal degree and certificate.”
-Sandra M. Herdler is the Vice President of the American Alliance of Paralegals, Inc.

“My advice for getting hired as a paralegal would be to focus first on obtaining a bachelor’s degree. More so than ever, employers are requiring candidates to hold, at minimum, a four-year degree.”
-Kevin Johnson is the Vice President of the Massachusetts Paralegal Association

“My best advice for getting hired as a paralegal is to complete a four-year degree from an accredited program and join the local paralegal organization.”
-Lori Hanlon is the President of the St. Louis Paralegal Association

Read even more advice for getting hired as a paralegal from 40 paralegal professionals on our Advice page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a degree to be a paralegal?

Most paralegals have some formal education, such as a certificate in paralegal studies, a paralegal associate degree, a paralegal bachelor’s degree, or higher. Although it is not strictly required to work as a paralegal, many employers now prefer paralegal candidates with a bachelor’s degree, as it demonstrates a strong understanding of the legal field. In general, candidates with higher degrees tend to earn more and have a competitive edge in the job market. At the very least, consider pursuing a certificate or associate degree program to enter the field. Before you decide which degree to pursue, you should research paralegal job requirements in your area to get an idea of what local employers are looking for.

What can I do with a paralegal degree?

With a paralegal degree, you can seek employment in law offices, where you’ll assist attorneys with tasks such as preparing legal documents, conducting case research, interviewing witnesses, and gathering evidence. Paralegals play a vital role in supporting legal teams. If this interests you, consider pursuing an associate paralegal degree or a bachelor’s paralegal degree.

How long does it take to get a paralegal degree?

The duration depends on the type of degree you choose. A certificate program in legal studies can take as little as one year, while an associate degree typically takes two years. A bachelor’s degree generally takes four years, and a master’s degree typically takes two more years. Before selecting a program, review the time commitment for each degree type to ensure it aligns with your schedule and resources.

How do I get admitted into a paralegal program?

Admission requirements vary depending on the school and program type. Four-year universities often have competitive admission processes, which may include interviews or personal statements. Community colleges and online programs typically have open admissions. It is a good idea to explore the school’s website and consult an admissions counselor who can provide details on course offerings, scheduling, financial aid, and job placement services.

How can I pay for my paralegal degree?

If you’re like most students you may need financial assistance. Start by completing the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), a free application that determines eligibility for federal aid such as grants, low-interest loans, and work-study programs. Additionally, private student loans and scholarships are available. Local paralegal associations may also offer scholarships to students in their region.

What are the common prerequisites required for a paralegal degree?

Prerequisites vary by program and institution. Some four-year universities, like New York University (NYU), may require applicants to have some college credits before admission. Paralegal master’s programs typically require a bachelor’s degree. Certificate programs may or may not require previous degrees, depending on whether they are generalist or specialist programs. Associate degrees, which are offered at community colleges, usually do not require prior college credits for entry.

How important are internships when it comes to securing a full-time paralegal job after graduation?

Internships can be highly beneficial for securing a full-time paralegal job. They provide practical, hands-on experience, which not only strengthens your resume but also gives you an inside look into the day-to-day operations of a legal environment. Employers often value candidates with real-world experience, and in some cases, internships can lead directly to job offers. Additionally, they offer networking opportunities, which can open doors to job opportunities that may not be publicly advertised.

References:
1. National Center for Education Statistics College Navigator: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Paralegals and Legal Assistants: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/paralegals-and-legal-assistants.htm
3. O*NET OnLine, Paralegals and Legal Assistants: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/23-2011.00#Education
4. NALA 2022 National Utilization Compensation Study: https://nala.org/paralegal-info/